Quedgeley to find out more about street light project

19th March 2012 Quedgeley could be the first urban area in Gloucester to take part in a trial street light scheme, aimed at reducing energy and saving money.

Residents are invited to come to an open meeting organised by Gloucestershire County Council's street lighting team on Thursday 22nd March in the Community Centre, School Lane from 6 - 8pm, to find out more about the scheme.

Following the introduction of part-night lighting (PNL) schemes in 87 rural parishes in Gloucestershire, the county council is looking at introducing energy efficiency street lighting projects in urban areas.

The county council has already begun talks with Cheltenham Borough Council and now Quedgeley is the first urban area in Gloucester wanting to find out more about the project.

Lesley Smith, one of the council's street lighting team will be speaking to residents and councillors at the meeting and will give them a chance to view the proposed scheme and allow them to discuss any issues.

Lesley said: "This is the next step for the county council to reduce its energy consumption at the same time as cutting costs.

"The key to the success of the project in rural areas so far has been the consultation meetings held with parishes and town councils.

"We know that getting residents and key community groups involved, and more importantly, demonstrating to them that their views matter and are acted upon will be the key to successfully introducing part night lighting to urban areas."

Councillor Will Windsor-Clive, cabinet member for communities, added: "As a council we've committed to reducing our carbon footprint and our energy usage and the street light projects have done just that.

"I am sure that residents will have lots of questions for our street light team, which is why it's very important for them to attend the meeting to discuss the scheme further."

Councillor Jackie Hall, local member, said: "This is a great opportunity for local people to discuss any issues they may have and to find out more about the scheme."

Councillor Vic Rice, local member, said: "The scheme is all about reducing the cost of street lighting and the associated environmental impact, whilst ensuring that we do not reduce lighting in areas where it is needed for specific reasons."

Gloucestershire County Council is the first local authority to participate in the 10:10 campaign and Gloucestershire Police have confirmed our schemes are safe.